Horizons Regional Council’s Levin depot has been cleared of all hazardous substances following a fire that damaged property, equipment and vehicles in January.

Horizons chief executive Michael McCartney says the depot was used to store herbicides for weeds, 1080, brodifacoum, feratox (cyanide), and some rabbit toxins.

“Fortunately these were securely contained in a pesticide store in the building. The 1080 casing was damaged but contained all of the poison as it was designed to do.

“This meant there was no contamination from poisons burning and all run-off associated with the fire was contained on site.”

Mr McCartney says the hazardous substances were not removed immediately following the fire to ensure their casings did not break.

“While the casings performed well during the fire, we did not want to risk moving them until we could ensure this could be done without risk to the environment or human health.

“As a result we engaged Waste Management Technical Services to safely remove and dispose of the hazardous substances. This was a complex and time consuming task and we’re pleased to report it has now been completed.

“All known poisons on site have been accounted for and we’re confident that we have done due diligence for managing the incident.”

Mr McCartney says the site has been under 24 hour security since the fire occurred and will remain closed to staff and the public until further notice. The investigation into the fire is still in progress.

Horizons has three dedicated staff who work out of the Levin depot and undertake pest control in the Horowhenua district. They are currently working from temporary Horowhenua District Council facilities.

ENDS

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